matxino records

The kick-off release (MTX10"001) for this brand new independent label is a 45rpm 10-inch vinyl featuring The First Light Orchestra, an Italian-based roots and dub band. Their fusion of British and Jamaican 70s roots reggae with a hint of soul was a perfect combination for the mixing and dubbing techniques of Roberto Sanchez at the A-Lone Ark Muzik Studio in Santander (Spain). The material was mostly recorded using the lead singer's analogue and tape machines at the Tuttaziz Studios in Scandicci (Italy), in November and December 2007, before being taken up to the north of Spain in February 2008 for completion and for the final mixdown. Moving on to the actual music, side A is an extended version of "Natty Dread No Dead": a potent steppers anthem dedicated to the deeds and survival capacities of the numerous rebels across the planet, wherever they may be and in whatever harsh reality they may find themselves. Flipping over to side B brings the needle to the sweet orchestration and groove of a call for introspection and self-respect, entitled "Before It's Too Late". The skills and pure roots expertise of Mr. Sanchez were crucial for the recording of the horns and vocals throughout this record, but perhaps more than anything else - as the listener will surely appreciate - for his contribution in "Under Pressure Skank", the melodica instrumental cut which follows and closes this 10-inch release, heaving with Lee Perry-style phasing. Of great importance was also the analogue mastering carried out by Ibon Larruzea and Roberto Sanchez at Ibon's splendid Euridia Studios in Bilbo (Basque Country). And, last but nowhere near least, this first Matxino Records vinyl release comes adorned with the old school transdisciplinary artwork produced by the talented Marta Serra Permanyer, from Caldes de Montbui (Catalonia).